Thyroid disease can affect anyone, and it requires monitoring and lifelong care; if left untreated, it can result in several health complications like infertility, heart attack, and joint pain. With Newport Beach thyroid RFA, the team at Endocrinology Internal Medicine ensures that you receive evidence-based and personalized care.
How can you differentiate between parathyroid glands and thyroid glands?
Your endocrine system consists of thyroid and parathyroid glands, releasing hormones responsible for body functioning.
- Parathyroid gland
Parathyroid glands are the tiny pea-sized glands behind your thyroid glands. These small glands release parathyroid hormone, which works with other hormones from your pituitary glands to ensure that phosphorus and calcium are balanced in your blood.
- Thyroid gland
The thyroid gland refers to a butterfly-shaped organ on the front of your neck. This small organ releases thyroid hormones that control your metabolism. Thyroid glands utilize iodine from food to synthesize thyroid hormones.
What should you know about thyroid disease?
Thyroid disease is a medical condition that hinders your thyroid gland from making the right level of hormones. When your thyroid gland releases too little or too many hormones, it affects the normal functioning of your body. Too much thyroid hormone prompts your body to use up energy quickly, leading to fatigue. In some cases, you may begin losing weight at an alarming rate. If your thyroid gland releases too little thyroid hormone, you may get tired quickly, gain weight and, in severe cases, be unable to handle cold temperatures. There are several forms of thyroid disease, including nodules, goiters, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and Graves’ disease.
Who is at risk of developing thyroid disease?
Anyone can develop thyroid disease, including infants and the elderly. Thyroid disease can develop at birth or later in life, especially among post-menopausal women. This disease is more prevalent in women than in men. You also have a higher probability of getting thyroid disease if you have rheumatoid arthritis, primary adrenal insufficiency, or lupus.
How can your doctor diagnose thyroid disease?
During your visit to Endocrinology Internal Medicine, Dr. Nikravan conducts a thorough physical exam to rule out confirmed thyroid disease. He may also review your health history and run blood work to make an accurate diagnosis. He may also use ultrasound to check for abnormalities like thyroid nodules in your neck. If necessary, he may recommend a thyroid nodule biopsy.
How can you treat thyroid disease?
Your treatment relies on the severity of your condition and how it influences your hormone levels. For low hormone production, Dr. Nikravan may recommend hormone replacement medication. He may recommend medication that lowers thyroid hormone release for excessive hormone production.
Endocrinology Internal Medicine offers thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a non-invasive treatment effective for enlarged thyroid and thyroid nodules. Your whole body depends on the proper functioning of your thyroid glands. Some people may not experience thyroid disease symptoms, but your doctor may detect it during your routine medical check-ups.
Call Dr. Nikravan or visit the website to book a consultation for expert thyroid disease care.
